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Former leader of Oklahoma state Senate asks for probation for bribery conviction

Former state Senate leader Mike Morgan is seeking probation for his bribery conviction. His attorney filed letters Friday from more than 400 supporters including U.S. congressmen, university presidents, former Sooner coach Barry Switzer and former Cowboys coach Eddie Sutton.

Two U.S. congressmen, university presidents, legislators, lobbyists, former University of Oklahoma football coach Barry Switzer and former Oklahoma State University basketball coach Eddie Sutton were among those who wrote character letters filed Friday.

Morgan, 57, of Stillwater, faces up to 10 years in prison. He wants probation and still says he is innocent.

He is asking U.S. District Judge Robin Cauthron to take into account at sentencing his lifetime of good works, “the weak and questionable evidence” that supported his conviction and his serious medical problems.

“At the darkest moment in his life Mike Morgan deserves credit for his exceptional good works,” his attorney, Jack Fisher, wrote in a sentencing memo.

The attorney told the judge the 419 character letters “provide ample proof Mike Morgan is, always has been and will continue to be a law-abiding citizen for the rest of his life.”

“He has the support of his family, including his brother, sister ... daughter, his ... father and two former wives. He also has the support of hundreds of friends, lawyers, judges ... legislators, congressmen, doctors ... dentists, farmers, ranchers, laborers and a community of fine upstanding people not only in Stillwater and throughout Oklahoma but in 19 other states.”

The attorney also wrote that Morgan, an attorney, already has suffered extreme punishment because of his conviction and will either be suspended or disbarred from practicing law.

“Sentencing Mike Morgan to federal prison will not yield any additional deterrent effects. What Oklahoma lawyer, legislator or lobbyist would trade places with Mike Morgan even if he is granted probation?” Fisher wrote.

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by Nolan Clay

Sr. Reporter

Nolan Clay was born in Oklahoma and has worked as a reporter for The Oklahoman since 1985. He covered the Oklahoma City bombing trials and witnessed bomber Tim McVeigh's execution. His investigative reports have brought down public officials,...